The top plate of the adapter kit is designed similar to the original CGEM tripod top. It has a cylindrical recess to accept the mounting post on the bottom of the CGEM mount head. An included bolt is used to secure the mount to the adapter plate in a similar fashion to how the CGEM normally bolts to the tripod. There is also a pre-drilled hole on the top adapter plate to accept the azimuth-adjustment post. (The post from the original tripod is used on the adapter kit.)

Three stand-off posts keep the top plate clear of the pier itself, allowing easy mounting and adjustment of the CGEM. The posts are each 1" in diameter and provide 5" of clearance.

The bottom plate is designed to attach to a pier with three bolts. Three 1/2" bolt holes are provided in the bottom plate, between the stand-off posts.